Irwin Mitchell is in talks to transfer its Spanish offices to a local firm, forming a strategic alliance.

The move would see the Spanish firm take over Irwin Mitchell's subsidiary in the country which operates out of Madrid and Malaga. The practice, known as Irwin Mitchell Abogados, is its only overseas on-the-ground presence.

A spokesman for Irwin Mitchell said in a statement: "We can confirm that we are in discussions with a Spanish law firm with regard to establishing a strategic alliance to develop the international side of our business.

"Part of that alliance would involve the transfer of Irwin Mitchell SLP, our Spanish subsidiary. Those discussions are of course confidential and therefore, it would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage."

The Malaga office comprises litigation partner Jose Maria de Lorenzo and an associate director as well as three associates with Lorenzo and the associate director splitting their time between the base and the Madrid outpost.

The Madrid office is staffed by partner Javier Gonzalez Espadas, who specialises in civil litigation, white collar crime and data protection law.

Irwin Mitchell acquired Madrid-based firm L&E Solucion Legal and Empresarial in 2010, with Espadas among the team of lawyers joining the operation.

Irwin Mitchell has further bases in Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Newcastle, Bristol and Sheffield as well as a consulting office in Leicester.